Waubonsee Community College is hosting a community-wide, family-friendly celebration to honor its landmark 60th anniversary. The “Back-to-School, Back-to-Cool!" event will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. on the Sugar Grove Campus, located at Route 47 at Waubonsee Drive.
This family-friendly event, which is free and open to the public, falls exactly on the historic 60th anniversary of the very first Waubonsee Community College Board of Trustees meeting, held on August 22, 1966. Featuring a packed lineup of live entertainment, family fun, and interactive experiences, the evening is designed to unite students, staff, faculty, alumni, and neighbors. Together, the community will celebrate the upcoming academic year while honoring six decades of institutional excellence and the rich history of our district.
“We want this to be the largest family reunion event in our area,” said Waubonsee President Dr. Brian Knetl. “We are encouraging our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and district residents to bring out their families, pack up their lawn chairs, and enjoy an unforgettable evening on our beautiful Sugar Grove Campus.”
The Main Stage will feature a diverse lineup of bands representing a variety of genres. Attendees will be treated to nostalgic performances by a 1960s tribute band, the soulful sounds of a Motown and soul band, and an energetic, live Mariachi dance performance.
Beyond the stage, car enthusiasts can take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a dedicated Cruise Night showcasing classic vehicles from the 1960s and beyond. For children and families, a fun Kids Zone will keep guests of all ages fully engaged throughout the night. Kids can enjoy a live petting zoo, custom balloon twists, a giant bouncy house, and festive face painting by the Waubonsee Cheer Team.
Bridging fun with learning, Waubonsee faculty members will be available to provide interactive educational experiences alongside Touch-A-Truck displays of local emergency and municipal vehicles.
Sports fans of all ages can run soccer scrimmages with the Waubonsee Women’s Soccer Team, shoot hoops with the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams during free-throw and 3-on-3 sessions, or practice spikes with the Women’s Volleyball Team. Additionally, Waubonsee alumni are invited to reconnect and share their experiences at the Alumni Tent.
Come shine bright like a diamond with the community as we celebrate 60 years of history and look forward to the next 60 years of excellence. For details and more information, visit waubonsee.edu/60.
